o actively respond to the vision of the Rice Self-Sufficient Philippines 2013, a Seminar Workshop on the Design of Irrigation Projects was conceptualized and has been realized.

The Philippine government aims to become a rice self-sufficient country. One of the schemes to achieve this goal are well-designed irrigation structures to have an efficient and sustainable irrigation water supply. But due to lack of experienced technical personnel and multifunctions caused by the Rationalization Plan, training, capacity building and development for the new Design Engineers and other persons involved in the design of irrigation projects becomes imperative.

The Seminar-Workshop consists of four (4) Programs, namely: Program 1-Feasibility Study, Program 2- Design of Irrigration & Drainage Canals and Canal Structures, Program 3-Design of Diversion Works, and Program 4-Design of Embankment Dam, which were conducted by Program in two (2) batches. Meanwhile, Program 4-Design of Embankment Dam has not yet been scheduled as of this writing.

During the course of the training on each program, NIA’s new Design Engineers deeply comprehend the processes and significance of each topic discussed and taught by the elite and knowledgeable resource persons. The speakers of their own expertise came from NIA Consult and Personnel of NIA-Central Office, Hydroterre Consultans, Inc., and NIA Design Engineers from the different regional/ field offices.

Participants of the Seminar-workshop for the two (2) batches organized a group, the SOCIETy OF PLANNING AND DESIGN ENGINEERS (SPADE) OF NIA, to strengthen the workforce of the agency. The group’s theme song is “Nothing’s Gonna Stop Us”.

The closing ceremony for the three (3) programs was conducted on March 7, 2013 at the 5th floor Convention Hall, DCIEC Building, NIA, Central office, Quezon City and witnessed by the Honorable NIA Administrator Antonio S. Nangel, OIC Senior Deputy Administrator Claro V. Maranan, Deputy Administrator for Engineering and Operations Robert C. Suguitan, Deputy Administrator for Finance and Adminitration Lorna Grace B. Del Rosario, Engineering Department Manager Erdolfo B. Domingo, PAIS Department Manager Pilipina P. Bermudez, Regional and Operations Managers, and the Resource Persons. One of the highlights of the event was the unveiling of the SPADE Logo.

The realization of the seminar-workshop was an endeavor of the Steering Committee Chairperson Mr. Robert C. Suguitan, Co-chairperson Mr. Erdolfo B. Domingo, Members Mr. Milo M. Landicho, Mr. Efren N. Reyes, Ms. Juliet V. Dumandan, and Ms. Wilma E. Caguioa; and the Technical Working Group Chairperson Ms. Ma. Zenaida S. Sirios, Co-chairperson Mr. Reynaldo B. Villanera, Members Ms. Conchita G. Calsiña, Mr. Reynaldo L. Baloloy, Mr. Othello L. Razon, and Ms. Xsa A. Cabria.

T

NATIONAL IRRIGATION ADMINISTRATION

currents

by: JOSELyN S. VIVARES, SpAdE mEmbER REgION 10

1st Quarter — Volume 9, No. 1, 2013

PRODUCED BY THE PUBLIC AFFAIRS AND INFORMATION STAFF

National Irrigation AdministrationEDSA, Diliman, Quezon City

www.nia.gov.ph

Pantabangan Dam

16

SEMINAR-WORKSHOPON THE DESIGN OFIRRIGATION PROJECTS

by: dANIELLE pIJuAN, pRO-REgION 6

https://www.facebook.com/NIA.pAIS

niapais@gmail.com

EDITORIAL STAFF

Executive Editor and Consultant

PILIPINA P. BERMUDEZ

Editor-in-Chief

LUZvIMINDA R. PEñARANDA

Associate Editor

CLARIZZE C. TORIBIO

Managing Editor

POPS MARIE S. DADEA

Copy Editing and Editorial Staff

News Editor/Writer

MARIA LUISA A. FRIAS

Feature Editor/Writer

ROCIELLE HARLETTE E. NAvARRO

Copy Editor/Writer

LIONEIL G. DELA CRUZ

graphiCS and layout tEam

Illustrator

ARNULFO P. TOMAS

Layout Artist

REMSTER D. BAUTISTA

Layout Artist

ANA CRISTEL K. UNTIvERO

Photographer

ROGELIO C. BARETTO

adminiStrativE Support Staff

AGUSTINA C. PABLO

MARK v. DARADAL

ARNEL M. REvES

ALLAN JOHN O. ZITA

Administrator Nangelvisits ILOILO

A COMMITMENT DAY TO RICE SELF-SUFFICIENCY

In his rare visit to the Province, Administrator Antonio S. Nangel came to Iloilo to attend the ceremonial Groundbreaking of the Jalaur River Multipurpose Project Stage II (JRMP II). The said event was led by President Benigno Simeon Aquino III and joined by Senator Franklin Drilon, DA Secretary Proceso Alcala, Governor Arthur Defensor, former Governor Niel Tupas, and senatoriables of theTeam PNoy.

To make the most of his presence, together with Director Gerardo Corsiga, he went to Pototan, Iloilo to speak with the farmers attending the Training on Financial Discipline and Management for the Beneficiaries of Sikat Saka Program.

In his speech, ASN discussed the Groundbreaking of JRMP II and the benefits and components this huge project would bring the farmers, including hydroelectric power and supply of potable water. He emphasized that the completion of the project will generate 9,000 hectares of irrigated lands, “para maging maganda ang pamumuhay ng magsasaka,” he said.

He also shared his experience in Japan where he saw the modern methods and techniques in farming, including hydroelectric power. He brought this model project home and works on implementing the methods he learned from his travel.

On good farming practices, ASN advised the farmers to attend meetings and seminar workshops.

“Hindi aani ng maganda kung wrong timing ang delivery ng inputs”, he said. Going over the importance of proper selection of seeds and fertilizers to be used, he stressed the importance of timing in each cropping season and the necessity to know “kailan itatanim, kailan isasabog ang pataba”.

He also emphasized the importance of linkage building with agencies like DA, Landbank, NIA, PCIC, NFA, and NABCOR. The joint movement and cooperation of these agencies bring about huge impact on increasing the efficiency of irrigation related programs.

“Itataas namin kayo, itataas niyo rin kami,” was the message he left with the farmers.

“Ituturo ko sa iba ang responsableng pagkonsumo nang mabigyang halaga ang pagod ng mga magsasaka at nang makatulong na maging sapat ang bigas sa Pilipinas”.

These are the few lines of the “Panatang Makapalay”, recited in unison by NIAns led by Administrator Antonio S. Nangel together with employees of the Department of Agriculture, and its bureaus and attached agencies, during the Commitment Day of the National year of Rice (NyR) held at the Liwasang Aurora of the Quezon Memorial Circle on February 25, 2013.

NYR 2013 primarily aims to help achieve Rice Self-Sufficiency through the help of every Filipino. Along with that, it also aims to promote better health among rice consumers and improve the income of farmers. Higher yield means more rice to feed the country.

The venue was filled with NYR lanterns which signify the color of our flag, and the three men holding hands representing the policy-maker, farmer and the consumer. If you are a policy-maker, you can help create or reinforce policies that would support or promote productivity among farmers and responsible rice consumption among consumers. As a farmer, you can adopt recommended technologies. As a consumer, you can help by reducing rice wastage and by eating just the right amount of rice.

The signing on the NYR commitment wall was indeed a significant gesture. It is a NYR advocacy campaign to increase rice production and farmers’ income towards attaining national sufficiency by end of this year.

NyR fans were given to the participants with the “Panatang Makapalay” written on it. And with the commitment of helping out in achieving sufficiency in our country, every one of us has a responsibility to be RICEponsable in our own way.

straight from the top

by: mARIA LuISA A. FRIAS, pAIS-C.O.

Administrator Nangel committed to achieve, Rice Self Sufficiency as he signs on the NYR commitment wall.

CONTENTS• STRAIGHT FROM THE TOP

- AdmINIStRAtOR NANgEL VISItS ILOILO

- A COmmItmENt dAy tO RICE SELF - SuFFICIENCy

- mALIgAyANg kAARAwAN SA ARAw Ng mgA puSO

- ISANg muNtINg HANdOg pARA SA AtINg pINAgpIpItAgANg

AmA Ng NIA

- NEwS pHOtOS

- SR. dEputy AdmINIStRAtOR ANtONIO A. gALVEz REtIRES

- HAppy bIRtHdAy mAdAm LgbR!

- ENgR. CLARO V. mARANAN (OFFICE OF tHE SENIOR

dEputy AdmINIStRAtOR)

- tHE mAN OF tHE HOuR: REgIONAL mANAgER FELIx m. RAzO

- mEEt tHE NEw CHIEFS OF OFFICES

- CHILdREN wItH ACAdEmIC HONORS RECEIVEd gIFtS

- tHE FARmER’S SHuttLE buS - an end and a beginning

• NIA’S PLANS & PROGRAMS

- HydROELECtRIC pOwER pLANt

(HydROpOwER SyStEmS): A gREAt pROpHECy

• BIG EVENTS

- NIA LAuNCHES tHE 50tH ANNIVERSARy LOgO

- NIA uNVEILS tHE gIANt COuNtdOwN SIgNAgE

- NIA mARIIS HOLdS IA dAy: AdmINIStRAtOR NANgEL

ExpRESSEd gRAtItudE tO FARmERS

- NIA mARIIS pHOtO StORIES

• NIA’S PARTNERS

- mEEt tHE NEw AudItOR

- NIA CONSuLt pRESIdENt & ExpERtS AS RESOuRCE

pERSONS IN pARtICIpAtORy IRRIgAtION

mANAgEmENt tRAININg

• PROUD TO BE NIAN

- tHE NIA CENtRAL OFFICE CHORALE REbIRtH

- SEmINAR - wORkSHOp ON tHE dESIgN OF

IRRIgAtION pROJECtS

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4-5

6-7

8-9

10-11

12-13

14-15

Administrator Nangel with Deputy Administrator Suguitan and OIC Senior Deputy Administrator Maranan together with DA

Officials reciting the Panatang Makapalay

On the CoverPantabangan Dam operates under the Upper Pampanga River

Integrated Irrigation System (UPRIIS). It covers a total of

122,320.07 ha service area in 23 municipalities and 5 cities in

the provinces of Nueva Ecija, Tarlac, Pampanga, and Bulacan. It

benefits 483, 646 farmer beneficiaries. Its water source is

primarily the Pampanga River.

3

Habang ang iba ay nakatuon sa kani-kanilang nakaatang na gawain, ang ilan naman ay abala sa paghahanda at paggayak ng entablado. Karamihan sa kawani ng NIA ay nakasuot ng kulay pula. Ang mga mesa ay may mga palamuting rosas na iba’t ibang kulay-puti, rosas, pula at dilaw. Mga rosas na lalong nagbigay ningning sa okasyon. Ano ang espesyal sa araw na ito para sa mga NIAns?

“Araw ng mga Puso!” at Araw ng Kapanganakan ng ating mahal na Administrador, Antonio S. Nangel.

Ang pamilya ni Administrador Nangel ay naroon maging ang mga opisyales ng NIA at mga Managers ng iba’t ibang rehiyon upang makisaya sa okasyong ito. Naghandog ng sayaw at awitin ang mga panauhin at ibang NIAns tulad ng PIDP, HRD, IAS at mga piling kawani ng Region I na umawit at pinutungan ng korona ng rosas ang mahal na Administrador. Ang tradisyong ito ng mga Ilokano ay sumisimbolo ng kagandahang loob sa taong pinagkakalooban nito. Mababanaag sa mukha ng mahal na Administrador ang saya na kanyang nararamdaman sa araw na iyon.

Taong milnuwebe sientos quarenta y otso ka isinilangAraw ng mga puso iyong kaarawanSa Baryo La Torre, Bayan ng TalaveraMga ingay na umalingawngaw unang pag-uha mo pala

Sa pagsilang ng ika-siyam na supling,Kasiyahan ng magulang mo tatay Quirino at nanay Mercedez hindi maisulingNaging palaruan mga sakahang luntianNa siyang binabaybay pagpasok ng paaralanAt pagsapit ng Pebrero tuwing malapit na ang anihanNagmimistulang ginto ang malawak na taniman

Nilinang ang angkin at taglay mong talinoElementarya sa TalaveraAt sa PCLPC nagsekondaryaPansamantalang nilisan kanlungan sa Nueva EcijaUpang maging Civil Engineer sa institusyon ng Mapua

Sumunod na kabanata sa iyong pagpupunyagiPagkabihag sa puso ng dalagang kayumanggiIsang Nars na ang ngalan ay Fely MagnoKantang paborito pinanay ang Ensayo

Sa pagsuyo mo’y nakuha yaong puso ng dalagaApat na bunga ang siyang naging biyayaAntonife, Doktora Fe yanJohn mark at Razel mga pangalanAt ang love life mo naging masmakulay sa theme song nitong.. And I love you So.

Iyong kahusayan sadyang ipinamalasNang UPRIIS ay biglang nagpakitang gilasAng pagkalugmok ng dalawang dekada

Nagpasikat ka ng makabagong teknolohiyaMaging ang LGU, DA, at magsasakaNaging kapuso mo, kapatid, at kapamilya

Nagsulong ng roadmap sa rice sufficiencyManagement style mo raw ang going around the countryKaya maging sa Batanes hanggang sa JoloKilalang kilala ang pangalan mo

Walang kapaguran sa pakikinig at pakikipagtalastasanHinaing ng mga farmers at mga NIAns man mabilis na tinutugunanNgayon palang nga naging viable ang ahensiya natin na NIA

Sa bawat gawain na iyong nagampananGinawan ka ng sandamakmak na karangalanHall of Famer bilang Outstanding OM-RM sa tatlong taonDatu Mangompia-The Achiever, at may pahabol pang baonNa Gawad Anak 2013 ngayong taon

Ang mga ito ba ay dahil sa pagfufungsoy na ginagawa?Ano nga at ikaw ang ama naming taga NIASampu ng libu-libong mga magsasaka

Kami po sa PIDP ay lubos ang karangalanNa kami ay mapabilang sa iyong koponanUpang makamtan ang food sufficiency ng bayan

Kaarawan mo ngayong simpleng mamaPangalan ay Tony S. Nangel po palaAming pinaaabot aming pagbatiAkalain mo 65 ka na pala!

Mabuhay kayo Sir from PIDP family!!

“Ipinakita at ipinadama ninyo sa akin at sa aking pamilya na ako ay napakahalaga sapagkat pinahalagahan ninyong lahat ang aking kaarawan. Napakapalad kong nilalang na makapiling at makasama kayo sa aking tanging araw na ito, Maraming salamat sa inyong lahat mula sa aking puso”. Ito ang mga sinambit ng ating Administrator sa kanyang mensahe.

Ika 14 ng Pebrero, Araw ng mga Puso at Kaarawan ng ating Administrador Antonio S. Nangel. Ang tanging araw ng pag-ibig na nakatatak sa mga taga NIA, araw ng taong nagbigay ng tunay na inspirasyon sa NIA at humubog na maging mas masigasig ang mga kawani tungo sa mas matatag at makabuluhang paglilingkod na may puso, para sa Diyos, sa mga magsasaka, sa kapwa at sa ating bansa.

Maligayang Ka a r aw a n

isang Munting Handog para sa ating PinagpipitaganG

ama ng NIA

sa Araw ng mga Pusoby: mARIA LuISA A. FRIAS, pAIS-C.O.

Administrator Antonio S. Nangel with his Family

RIMs/PMs/OMs celebrates with Admin NangelRegion I employees with PAIS Mgr. Pilipina P. Bermudez

Adm.Nangel with Ilokano Managers

IAS singing their own version of when I’m 65 song

Presented by PIDP Staff during ASN’s Day

PIDP renders a Poem to Adm. ASN

HRD doing their part Turnover of the Office of the Senior Deputy Administrator (OSDA). (from L-R) Senior Deputy Administrator Antonio A. Galvez shakes the hand of incoming

Officer-In-Charge, OSDA, Claro V. Maranan as Administrator Antonio S. Nangel looks on.

Ms. Pilipina P. Bermudez, PAIS Manager, represents NIA in celebrating 2013 World Water Day dubbed as International year of Cooperation with a theme, “Tubig para sa lahat, lahat para sa Tubig” held at the Mall Of

Asia, Pasay City.

Administrator Antonio S. Nangel spends time with the Public Relations Officers at the NIA Penthouse

NEWS

PHO

TOS

Administrator Antonio S. Nangel takes oath as a member of the NIA Board of Directors before Secretary Proceso J. Alcala.

4 5

Sr. Deputy AAG shares a laugh with his family onstage during his Glitzy & Glamorous Birthday

Celebration on January 25, 2013

Sr. Deputy Antonio A. Galvez poses happily with regional and project managers.

Sr. Deputy AAG with former NIA Administrators Baltazar H. Usis, Orlando C. Hondrade and Alexander A. Reuyan, Regional Directors, Project Managers, Department and Division Managers, OSDA Staff, and other special guests

Deputy Administrator for Administrative and Finance Lorna Grace B. Rosario celebrated her birthday at the Central Office on March 18. The entire NIA building had a good time with overflowing food and music which the birthday celebrator gladly shared with the rest of her CO family. Her husband Mayor Simplicio “Sammy” De Leon Rosario of Binmaley Pangasinan was also present. The event was also graced by top officials led by Administrator Antonio S. Nangel, along with Senior Deputy Administrator Claro V. Maranan and Deputy Administrator for Engineering and Operations Robert C. Suguitan. Managers from central, regional, and project offices were also present to wish her more blessings and good health in the years to come.

MadamLGBR!Happy Birthday

by: Rocielle HaRlette e. NavaRRo, PaiS-c.o.

Sr. Deputy Administrator

Antonio A. Galvez

Retiresby: AubREy R. SARmIENtO - NIA CENtRAL OFFICE

yes and ears were on Engr. Claro V. Maranan as he humbly approached the microphone for his first speech in front

of the NIA assembly during the first flag raising activity of March. There was no apprehension since he’s not new in public service. Engr. Maranan served Sariaya, Quezon as a public official. He became a member of the City Council of Sariaya from 1976-1980 and as a Board Member of the Provincial Council of Quezon from 1980-1985. He also served the government for 34 years and most of it was in other GOCCs like the Philippine Fisheries Development Authority (2011-Present) and the Philippine Ports Authority (1989-2010). His experience as a public official might have influenced his adherence to transparency, honesty, and accountability - qualities needed by efficient leaders.

Engr. Maranan had numerous achievements in his stint in the said GOCCs. At the PPA, he was able to implement 263 capital projects and initiated the development of engineering

For 42 grand years in public service, he had set a record. Soaring to every greater heights, a humble and diligent Engineer Trainee in 1970 to a remarkable OIC Administrator in 2010. As the old saying … “Life is a journey”, and as he passed in a long winding and difficult one, he just landed to the most amazing view. A wonderful experience that nobody can take away from him…

During the early stage of his career, success was measured through achievements, promotions and recognitions. In all these, he had capitalized on his skill, abilities and strength. Patience, opportunities and time were his faithful friends.

He entered NIA in 1970 that marked his historic moment. He never ceased to perform at his best.

He had worked with 19 NIA Administrators and OICs and met people from all walks of life. Challenges shaped his career, and through his vast experiences he had touched so many lives. So in the stage of his flourishing career, he had realized that a life lived for others is a life worth living.

He is the shining example of wisdom. He travelled the world visiting various countries in Europe and Asia to enrich his knowledge in his chosen career.

He was a consistent honor student and victor of various school competitions during his early age. In 1968, he obtained his Degree inCivil Engineering as a scholar of the National University. His scholarly pursuit garnered him another Bachelor’s Degree in 1969, and finished his Master’s Degree in Business Administration at the Philippine Christian University in 1998.

In NIA, he met a very special lady named Dolores Bartido. She was his safe haven, the keeper of his deepest thoughts and emotions and as faith destined them to be for each other, they tied the knot in 1985.

In 1999, he passed the Career Executive Service officer examination. Rated by his superior and subordinates, he again set the record being dubbed as an “Outstanding CESO for 3 consecutive years in 2009,2010 and 2011”.

Senior Deputy AAG, as he is fondly called, reached another milestone on January 26, 2013 as he turned 65.

His key to success: Heart to serve and wisdom from Above.

standards for the agency (which now are published in several engineering manuals that incorporated internationally accepted standards), and promotion of environmental concern in ports to name a few. In PFDA, he was able to persuade the board to approve the conduct of a comprehensive audit of the Navotas Fish Port Complex. He also earned citations from CBCP and Bishops-Businessmen’s Conference for Human Development for an organized, systematic, well-managed, and transparent Bids and Awards Committee. He helped in the improvement of these GOCCs; no doubt he could do it again in NIA.

He had attended a vast list of trainings and conferences as an addition to his Master in Public Administration and BS Civil Engineering degrees. These equipped and improved his skills in engineering, audit, management, and other related fields. He had been exposed to different trends in these fields through attending conferences here and abroad.

Reviewing what he had done in the past, he truly had been given the qualities and heart of a true leader – a leader with a great sense of service, warmth, humility, honesty, and an immortal clamor for knowledge and improvement. Having said all that, yes, he was and surely is fit for the job. NIA gives itsaffectionate accommodation to a new leadership and hopes of whatever excellence it may contribute to the agency. The National Irrigation Administration warmly welcomes Engr. Claro V. Maranan with anticipation of new heights to reach.

FIT FOR THE JOB:

Engineer Claro V. MarananOIC – Office of the Senior Deputy Administratorby: LIONEIL dELA CRuz, pAIS-C.O.

E

6 7

Regional Manager

It took one long year and one great man to convene 350 Irrigators Associations Presidents from 5 regions throughout Mindanao – a feat that is first in the history of National Irrigation Administration. On April 3 and 4, Region 10 Regional Manager Felix M. Razo paved the way for the creation of Mindanao Confederation of Irrigators Association Incorporated (MINCIA, Inc). Prior to that, he helped craft the Articles of Incorporation and By-Laws of the MINCIA. This feat made him the “Father of MINCIA” and proved his unwavering support to the farmers of Mindanao.

Who is Engineer Felix M. Razo?Engr. Razo or FMR to his colleagues, was born in Digos, Davao del Sur, finished his Bachelor of Science in Agricultural Engineering from the University of Southern Mindanao (USM) in 1979 and passed the Board Examinations for Agricultural Engineering on the same year. He holds a Master in Business Administration, and a Career Service Executive Eligible.

RM Razo started as a Civil Engineer Aide of the Operations Division in NIA Region 11 and was immediately promoted to Assistant Irrigation Engineer (casual) in Lupon River Irrigation System (LRIS) within 5 months after passing the board exam. Despite a casual employee, he was designated Officer-In-Charge of LRIS in 1980, a move contested by senior and regular engineers. Because of his performance and belief in his capability, the Regional Director of NIA Region XI, Engr. Cordoba, he facilitated his appointment to a permanent position as Assistant Irrigation Engineer. Four years later, he was appointed Supervising Engineer A, which was retitled to Irrigation Superintendent under the Infrastructure Reorganization Plan of the agency. He served there until his reassignment as OIC Division Manager of the Engineering Division and later transferred to the Operations Division of the region from August 2003 to October 15, 2004.

In October 16, 2004, then Administrator Jesus Emmanuel M. Paras, designated FMR as OIC-Regional Manager of NIA Region 6 based in Iloilo City, and subsequently appointed as full-pledged Regional Manager in August 15, 2005 by then Administrator Proceso T. Domingo.

On April 08, 2008, he was transferred to NIA Region XI until his reassignment to NIA Region X in November 01, 2011 up to this day.

FMR was a consistent awardee, being an Outstanding Irrigation Superintendent, Irrigation Superintendent of the Year in CY 2003 and was awarded with a Plaque of Commendation on June 25, 2004, Outstanding Regional Manager for CY 2009 and Outstanding Alumni Award in Administration during their 53rd Founding Anniversary Program on October 2007.

FMR can be attributed with the following significant accomplishments that warrant his numerous awards:

• Pioneered the Type 1 and 2 Memorandum of Agreement in Lupon RIS.

• Served concurrent Project Engineer of the World Bank financed Irrigation Operations and Support Project (IOSP) in LRIS.

• As OIC-Regional Manager of NIA Region 6, the region attained financial viability for the first time. He strengthened the Institutional Development Program thru deployment of Institutional Development Officers (IDO). He succeeded in united the several factions of employees thereat.

• After his transfer to NIA Region 11, 3 national grand slam awards for the Most Outstanding IAs in three categories: NIS Category, CIS Category and CARP-CIS category, awards were received.

• The following year, he vigorously pursued a strong NIA-IA partnership by holding regional IA congress annually where awarding of cheques for payment of IA share and remuneration to eligible IAs under Type I and Type II Contracts were given. This resulted to full participation of all IAs in all national irrigation systems and the record high average collection efficiency of ISF of Region 11 at 95%.

• When RM Razo was transferred to NIA Region 10, his work intensity is laudable because the region realized a whooping Php 50.1 M net income, from a mere Php18 M income in 2011, a first for the region. IA that entered into IMT Contracts jump from 0 to 71. Two IA made it to the Agri-Pinoy Most Outstanding IA – besting other bets nationwide.

RM Razo made a big leap in accomplishments in CY 2012 in Region 10 when it bested all other regions when it was judged “The Most Improved Region”. Most improved region is given to regional offices whose performance jumped three notches up from previous year’s preformance.

He was elected President of the prestigious Irrigation Superintendent Association of the Philippines (ISAPHIL) from 2003 to 2005.ISAPHIL, a middle managers’ association, became aplatform for past presidents to become regional managers and/or administrators of NIA. He was instrumental in formulating policies and programs for ISAPHIL that benefited its members, such programs as establishment of Members’ Mutual Fund. He also contributed to the formulation of various NIA memorandum circulars, particularly for the Operation andMaintenance of the national irrigation systems.

His service to the public didn’t end there. He also served as Board of Director of Davao Oriental Electric Cooperative (DORECO), which he helped transformed from a small to a large and multi-awarded cooperative. He was alsoinstrumental in organizing the Cooperative Bank of Davao Oriental in 1997.

RM Razo dares the impossible. He dreams big and makes it sure that these dreams are realized. His latest achievement is the formal organization of MINCIA, Inc: its historic general assembly meeting, the making of its articles of incorporation and its election of officers.

RM Razo is happily married to Yolanda O. Olarte, also employed with the NIA Region XI holding the position of Principal Engineer A and as Head of the Operations Section. They are blessed with four children who are all professionals. The eldest is a Doctor of Medicine, the second a Computer Engineer and a registered Nurse, the third is also a registered Nurse and a businessman and the youngest, a registered Radiologic Technologist.

When asked about his title as Father of MINCIA, RM Razo simply replied, “I just did my job withinstructions from Administrator Antonio S. Nangel, who also dreams of unifying the IAs in Mindanao and the whole country, not thinking of who will get the credit. But I am very happy, it comes as a bonus for my efforts and aspiration for our Mindanao IAs. I also encourage my colleagues, the Regional Managers of Visayas and Mindanao to do the same because I believe in the strength of our farmers especially when organized. I will treasure this as an achieve-ment in my career as a NIA employee because it comes from our beloved clientele—the IAs. Many can get recognition for their outstanding work performance but only one individual can get this distinct title as the Father of MINCIA. I am very fortunate to have contributed to the institutional development program of NIA, in pursuit of my advocacy for the empowerment of Irrigators Association.” Well said, Regional Manager Felix M. Razo, and congratulations for a job well done. #

Described as a quiet, simple guy but a man of action, Engr. Helsy S. Bermudez is the new Acting Project Manager of CARP-IC. He assumed office on January 07, 2013. Born in San Manuel, Pangasinan on November 10, 1951, he graduated with a degree in Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering from the University of Baguio and earned his Master’s Degree in Development Management from Pangasinan State University.

He entered the government service at the National Irrigation Administration in Region 1, Urdaneta City. He started as Civil Engineering Aide II in September, 1973, and occupied various positions until his appointment as Provincial Irrigation Officer at Pangasinan Provincial Irrigation Office in 1991. Under the NIA Rationalization Plan, he was appointed Division Manager of Pangasinan Irrigation Management Office in 2010. He was designated OIC of Engineering and Operations Division in the same region. Engr. Bermudez once again proved his worth as a good Manager and leader when he was designated Acting Operations Manager of MARIIS in Isabela on November, 2010. He sustained the viability of that office and records showed that he surpassed previous year’s accomplishments.

Engineer Bermudez was a recipient of various awards- Most Outstanding Provincial Irrigation Officer (1984-2007) and Gawad Pag-Asa Awardee in 2001 conferred by the Civil Service Commission.

“Mar”, as he is fondly called was born on January 9, 1950 in Nueva vizcaya. Took up Civil Engineering

at St. Mary’s College also in Nueva vizcaya. He finished his course and passed the Board exam in

1972 and joined National Irrigation Administration in the same year.

Started as Civil Engineering Aide II in NIA-Region 2, and got the Civil Engineer item under the

Angat-Magat Integrated Agricultural Development Project. He became part of Magat River

Multi-Purpose Project in Isabela in 1976 as a Supervising Planning Engineer. In 1980, he became

Principal Engineer D, a position he held until 1987 when Magat River Integrated Irrigation System

officially opened.

He has shown excellent performance in various positions until he eventually became the Operations

Manager of MARIIS in 2009, a position he holds up to present.

He is known for his innovations and hard work. He briefly left MARIIS in October 2011 when he was

assigned as head of the North Luzon Team of the Project Inspectorate and Advisory Group (PIAG),

then as the Acting Manager of the Operations Department at the NIA-Central Office.

In January 2013 he returned to MARIIS and reassumed his post as Operations Manager.

Accomodating, optimistic, down to earth, proactive. That is the best way to introduce Engr. John N. Celeste Born in Bolinao, Pangasinan on June 12, 1953. He started his career at the National Irrigation Administration as an Engineer Trainee on September 1975 the year he graduated at the University of Pangasinan with a degree in Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering. His post-graduate studies include Master of Science in Management Engineering, Doctor of Public Administration and Bachelor of Laws which he obtained in 1995, 1999 and 2011, respectively.

He was the Regional Irrigation Manager of Region 1 from August 2005 to November 2011. Area Manager for Northern Luzon of the Project Inspectorate and Advisory Group (PIAG) from November 2011 to December 2012 and, in the exigency and interest of the service, and as per notation of the NIA Board of Directors under Resolution No. 7823-12 dated 21 December 2012, Engr. John N. Celeste was designated as the Project Manager of National Irrigation Sector Rehabilitation and Improvement Project (NISRIP) effective January 2, 2013.

His awards and recognitions include the Most Outstanding Club President of the Rotary Club of Downtown Dagupan RY 2004-2005, Meritissimus (Gold Medalist) Doctor of Public Administration at the University of Luzon, Dagupan City in 1999 and Model Technical Employee of NIA-Region 1 in 1977-1978.

With his dedication to service & perseverance in his work, truly, Engr. John Celeste is one hard working guy.

Born on July 21, 1954 at Polo, Tanjay City, Negros Oriental and studied at Polo Elementary School

and East visayan School of Arts and Trade for his elementary and high school education,

respectively. He pursued his college education at Silliman University, Dumaguete City and

graduated with the Degree of Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering (BSCE) in 1977 and acquired a Master’s Degree in Public Management at Negros

Oriental State University (NORSU) in 2008 and Master’s Degree in Public Administration at

Southwestern University at Cebu City in 2012 with honor.

He started his career with NIA- Negros Oriental Provincial Irrigation Office in 1978 as Irrigation

Project Investigator until he became the Provincial Irrigation Officer of Negros Oriental/Siquijor PIOs. He was appointed as Division Manager for Engineering

& Operations (EOD) in NIA Region 7, Tagbilaran City on October 3, 2012 and on October 17, 2012

he became the OIC for Operations Department at NIA Central Office. On September 4, 2012 he was appointed Regional Manager of NIA Caraga and

made Caraga Region regain its viability.

A recipient of various awards: Outstanding Provincial Irrigation Officer in 1994 and 2005, Best

Regional Performers for 5 years and Regional Awardee for Dangal ng Bayan sponsored by the

Civil Service Commission (CSC) in Region 7.

The Man of the Hour:Felix M. Razo

FEATURE STORY:

ENGR. DEXTER G. PATROCINIO ENGR. HELSY S. BERMUDEZ

ENGR. MARIANO G. DANCEL ENGR. JOHN N. CELESTE

by: mARIA LuISA A. FRIAS, pAIS-C.O.by: SILVEStRE ALbORES, NIA CARAgA

by: mELISSA C. AgbISIt, mARIIS - pRO by: pOpS mARIE S. dAdEA, pAIS-C.O.

MEET THE NEW CHIEFS OF OFFICES

8 9

Regional Manager, Caraga

Operations Manager, MARIIS Acting Project Manager, NISRIP

Acting Project Manager, CARP - IC

nia’s plans & programs

Hydroelectric Power Plant (Hydropower Systems):A Great Prophecyby: pOpS mARIE S. dAdEA, pAIS-C.O.

epublic Act No. 9513 or the Renewable Energy Act of 2008 promotes the development, utilization and commercialization of Renewable Energy

Resources. Sources of energy includes, but not limited to, biomass, solar, geothermal, ocean and hydro.

Hydropower or water power emanates from potential and kinetic energy of falling and running water by running a turbine generator which generates electricity. It relies on the water cycle, which is driven by the sun, thus it is a renewable power source. Development and operation ofmini-hydroelectric power plants already existed in over 100 years intended for supporting rural agri-business enterprises. Since ancient times, hydropower has been used to run irrigation pumps and for the operation of poultry, piggery, hatchery, fishponds, aerations, sawmills and the like.

Administrator Antonio S. Nangel during one of his visits in Japan where there are existing mini-hydropower plants observed the usefulness of such technology and realized that it can also be done here in the Philippines. He knows that there are hydro powers potential in National Irrigation Administration (NIA) irrigation systems (dams and canals). Engr. Nangel saw that the said energy resource will be an efficiency-adding utilization scheme that will be helpful to NIA since it can be an opportunity to use the irrigation water for energy generation besides crop production.

Hydropower offers many advantages which includes being a domestic source of energy, is generally available as needed for the engineers can control the flow of water through the turbines to produce electricity on demand, provides clean electricity, one of the greenest of green technologies and Impoundment hydropower creates reservoirs that offer a variety of recreational opportunities, notably fishing, swimming and boating which can be income generating. It should also be stressed that after a hydropower was built, very little needs to be done in order to keep the plant in operation. Hydroelectric power plants have some of the longest lives among power plants, with some expected to last half a century with minimal maintenance.

As of February 2013, NIA field officials’ site visits and investigation identified over 130 potential sites for hydroelectric power with an estimated capacity of 40,000+ kilowatts that can energize around 130,000 to 200,000 households.

With his vision not just for irrigation but for the nation as a whole, Administrator Nangel wants NIA to provide necessary services in support to the governments’ mission to uplift the lives of Filipinos.

R

Proposed site of Magat C Hydro Power Plant MARIIS Division II, San Mateo, Isabela

The maiden trip of the newly reconditioned shuttle bus was on January 17, 2013 when it fetched and conveyed the IA PRESIDENTS of BIIS for their Technical Enhancement Program at Bago City and Cebu City sponsored by JICA thru its yLTA Program.

Now the services of this shuttle bus – to ferry employees - has come to end and started another milestone to serve our farmer-clientele, hence, this bus is now called “THE FARMERS SHUTTLE BUS”. Featured on its sides are the very important personalities that have made a difference to the life of our farmers; President Noy Aquino, Secretary Procy Alcala and NIA Administrator Tony Nangel. Also printed are the major reservoir dams of BIIS and at its back the 50th year anniversary logo of NIA. The bus was inaugurated on February 22, 2013 attended by no less than Administrator Antonio S. Nangel and Governor Edgar M. Chatto of Bohol.

Providing the petty needs of our farmers is a way of strengthening our partnership with them. Our farmers can now easily reach their points of destination during their various official functions in the province.

All these were made possible through the innovativeness of Acting Regional Manager Diosdado A. Rosales, a man who never stops thinking of whatever assistance or benefit he can provide to his people especially our farmer beneficiaries.

CONT. The “FARMERS SHUTTLE BUS” an end and a beginning...

In the 1970’s, NIA acquired a shuttle bus for Upper Pampanga River Irrigation Project (UPRIP) under the Watershed Management Erosion Control Project (WMECP), Pantabangan, Nueva Ecija, where it served for several years. The unit was later transferred to Bohol Irrigation Project Stage I (BHIP I), in 1990 where the shuttle bus continued its services – to ferry employees. With proper maintenance of the unit, it has extended its services to the employees of the Bohol Irrigation Project Stage II (BHIP II), Ubay, Bohol. However, in 2005, due to the normal wear and tear of the unit, this old shuttle bus was garaged at the BHIP II motorpool.

With the marching order of NIA Top Management, Engr. Diosdado A. Rosales, Acting Regional Manager of NIA Region 7, ordered the immediate repair of the unit in the early part of 2012 to meet the various farmers’ activities involved in the IMT program. It took almost a year to fully restore the shuttle bus.

“How grateful are the NIA employees who were able to send their children to school because of NIA”, quoted Administrator Antonio S. Nangel in his speech during the Region 7 4th Anniversary Celebration. This statement of Administrator Nangel well-defined the idea of Acting Regional Manager Diosdado A. Rosales in giving gifts to the children of NIA employees who showed exemplary performance in their respective schools for Sy 2012-2013.

Undeniably, there is nothing more rewarding to parents than see their children excel in their studies. On the other hand, the recognition is in consolation for the honor and pride the children had given to their parents who untiringly made every effort to make things happen.

The awards were personally handed by Administrator Antonio S. Nangel to the sixteen (16) beneficiaries who made it to the top. Assisting Administrator Nangel were Acting Regional Manager Diosdado A. Rosales, EOD Manager Olimpio J. Galagal, Jr., AFD manager Rocelle B. Tapales, BIIS-Malinao Area Head William B. Butron and the President for Visayas-wide Confederation of Irrigators Association Ereneo P. Leuterio. The recognition was initially given to Regional Office and Bohol-Cebu IMO (Bohol Office) and by next year for the entire Region 7.

“FARMER’S SHUTTLE BUS”

Children with Academic Honors Received Gifts

The

-an end and a beginning

10 11

by: REgION 7

by: REgION 7

NIAunveils theGiant countdownsignage

by: ROCIELLE HARLEttE E. NAVARRO, pAIS-C.O.

The agency’s 50th year anniversary was simultaneously kicked-off nationwide through the soft-launching of the anniversary logo and theme during the February 11 flag raising ceremony of every region. Throughout the NIA offices nationwide, employees witnessed the debut of the 50th year logo and the theme, “NIA @ 50: Serving the farmers with excellence and commitment to continue its legacy in the years to come…”

In line with the upcoming celebration, the “Adopt-a-Community” project was also launched to give back to NIA’s major stakeholder—the farmers. Administrator Antonio S. Nangel encouraged everyone to donate for this cause. Each field office including the Central Office also launched short AVPs to highlight the achievements of NIA in each region.

(March 15) NIA Central Office, Quezon City -- Clad in the anniversary colors of green and gold, the NIA management and employees flocked in front of the

IEC Building to officially start the 100-day countdown and to kick-off the agency’s 50th Founding Anniversary on June 22. Similar events were also

done in the different region and project offices and IMOs nationwide.

The NIA Central Office Chorale opened the program with a heartfelt rendition of Lord’s Prayer and the National Anthem. Engineer Claro V.

Maranan, OIC Senior Deputy Administrator, gave the opening remarks afterwards. A presentation portraying the five decades of NIA’s existence

was performed by selected NIA employees to retell the story of the agency’s beginnings until it attained corporate viability in 2012.

The production number cued for the highlight of the event. NIA Administrator Antonio S. Nangel and OIC Senior Deputy Administrator Claro V. Maranan

were ushered towards the veiled signage to draw the curtains apart to reveal a giant mosaic of the Magat Dam composed of smaller images of NIA

personalities and projects. On top of the mosaic is the Anniversary Logo which was previously soft-launched with the Anniversary Theme, “NIA @ 50: serving the farmers with excellence and commitment to continue its legacy in the years to come,”

on February 11.

The donation box behind NIA administrator ASN is for the “adopt-a-community” project in line with the agency’s 50th year celebration.

NIA Administrator Antonio S. Nangel addresses the crowd as NIA employees and Central Office Top Officials gather for the weekly flag raising ceremony.

Top management poses for the camera in front of the anniversary logo.

NIA-MARIIS holds IA Day,Administrator Nangel expressed gratitude to farmers

CAUAyAN CITy – Echoing the statement of President Benigno S. Aquino III, Administrator Antonio S. Nangel told hundreds of farmers, all members of Irrigators Associations in the Magat River Irrigation System, that the NIA is their follower.

“Kayo ang boss namin,” Administrator Nangel told the farmers gathered at the MARIIS grounds for the MARIIS IA Day on March 21, 2013.

The event was part of the series of events leading to the National Irrigation Administration’s Golden Anniversary Celebration on June 22, 2013.

Administrator Nangel expressed gratitude to the farmers as for the first time in the history of the agency, in 2012, the agency attained viability. “Ipinagmamalaki ko po kayo. Kung hindi dahil sa inyo, wala po ang NIA sa gani-tong kalagayan,” he said.

He shared that for 2012, the agency has a surplus of P1.3 billion. “Ibinalik po ninyo sa amin nang napakaganda, at tamang serbisyong binigay namin sa inyo,” he added.

He assured the farmers that the agency will always try its best to meet their needs. He shared his experiences growing up as a farmer’s son and how his father sent him to school through farming as the only source of livelihood. “Talagang malapit ang puso ko sa mga magsasaka,” he added, assuring the farmers that the agency would always be there to help them live better lives.

Concreting canal service roadsAdministrator Nangel also visited the different divisions in MARIIS during his visit. After the IA Day Celebration, the Administrator and Operations Manager Mariano G. Dancel inspected the newly constructed multi-purpose drying pavements in San Manuel and Luna, Isabela.

MARIIS OM Dancel explained that these pavements are canal service roads which farmers may use to dry their harvested palay. “Pagka-thresher ng palay diretso bilad na. Hindi na sila mabibigatan sa paglabas (ng na-thresher na palay),” he said.

For Cy 2013, MARIIS allocated P120 million for the concreting of canal service roads for solar drying and multi-purpose use within the service area.

Patanad Diversion DamOn his second day in MARIIS, the Administrator visited the construction of the Patanad Diversion Dam in San Isidro, Isabela under MARIIS Division II.

Admininistrator Nangel assured the farmers that the agency will always be serving the farmers the best way it can. “Hindi natin pababayaan ang mga magsasaka, kung merong pagkakataon na mabigyan natin sila ng patubig,” he said.

He shared that the agency is mandated to maximize available water to provide irrigation to every rice land so farmers do not have to rely on rain alone (sahod-ulan).

The Farmers’ Success is NIA’s Success The Administrator also visited the office of RamCor CIA in Ramon, Isabela, one of the most successful Council of Irrigators Associations in MARIIS.

He was impressed with the operations and organizational set-up of the RamCor CIA and hoped that all IAs would eventually be as successful as RamCor.

MARIIS OM Dancel downplayed RamCor’s success but praised the CIA officers and members for all their efforts at becoming the strong organization it is now. He shared that the success of RamCor is an example of how NIA continues to provide irrigation, and it goes on to strengthen the farmer-organizations into becoming successful entrepreneurs. He further reiterated the agency’s dedication to serve the farmers with excellence and commitment to its legacy in the years to come.

NIALaunches

the50th anniversarylogo

NIA Administrator Engr. Antonio S. Nangel and staff together with MARIIS Operations Manager Mariano G. Dancel and staff pose with

officers of the RamCor Council of Irrigators Association in Ramon, Isabela during his visit last March 22, 2013, a day after the MARIIS IA

Day held in Cauayan, Isabela.

NIA Administrator Antonio S. Nangel with staff and MARIIS officials headed by Operations Manager Mariano G. Dancel stand on the footbridge of the Patanad Diversion Dam in San Isidro, Isabela. The project is 76% completed and is set to irrigate 200 hectares of land currently planted with corn.

NIA Administrator Antonio S. Nangel, guest speaker during

the NIA - IA Day on March 21, 2013 spoke on the

agency’s continuing commitment to serve the farmers with excellence.

The Magat River Integrated Irrigation System successfully conducted its Irrigators Association Day on March 21, 2013 with the NIA Administrator Antonio S. Nangel as guest speaker. The event was attended by more than 1,000 farmers and NIA-MARIIS employees.

NIA Administrator Antonio S. Nangel with NIA Legal Department Manager Atty. Genever Dionio, MARIIS Operations Manager Mariano

G. Dancel and MARIIS-Division II Manager Pedro M. Dalawampu, inspects the construction of the Patanad Diversion Dam in San Isidro,

Isabela.

NIA Administrator Antonio S. Nangel and Public Affairs and Information Staff Manager Pilipina Bermudez, with MARIIS

Operations Manager Mariano G. Dancel and staff, inspect a newly constructed multi-purpose pavement/service road in San Manuel,

Isabela.

NIA MARIIS photo stories

big events

by: mELISSA C. AgbISIt, mARIIS - pRO

12 13

The NIA Central Office Chorale Rebirth

MEET ThE

NEwAUDITOR

nia’s partners

PROUD TO BE NIAN

by: mARIA LuISA A. FRIAS, pAIS-C.O.

by: dOmINAdOR d. pASCuA

A fair, demure lady, Ms. Elena Lagunero Agustin is our Agency’s new Auditor.

Ellen, as she is fondly called hails from Camiling, Tarlac and the eldest in the brood of four, is a Certified Public Accountant.

She earned her B.S. in Commerce major in Accountancy at the University of Santo Tomas and passed her licensure examination in 1977.

Ms Agustin first served COA in 1977 as an Examiner and then at the Philippine Postal Corporation, and as a Resident Auditor of Philhealth before she was assigned to NIA in February this year.

She is involved in the auditing of different Organizations like International health Organization and the United Nations.

She has numerous relevant trainings, seminars and experiences and garnered different awards and commendations which has greatly enhanced her skills and knowledge that made her fully equipped in

carrying out her duties and responsibilities in her present assignment.

“Do your best in everything” is her motto in life that makes her where she is now.

NIA CONSULT PRESIDENT AND EXPERTS AS RESOURCE PERSONS IN PARTICIPATORY IRRIGATION MANAGEMENT TRAINING

Senior Deputy Administrator Antonio A. Galvez and President of NIA Consult, Inc. and some consultants/experts acted as Resource Persons in the December 10 to 13, 2012, Participatory Irrigation Management (PIM) Training held at Vientiane Capital, Lao Peoples Democratic Republic (PDR).

Forty six (46) participants attended the training who are technical officials and staff of the Department of Irrigation (DOI) from the districts, 17 provinces and central office of Laos. The training was a collaborative activity between the Japanese Institute of Irrigation and Drainage (JIID), NIA/NIA Consult of the Philippines and DOI of Lao PDR.

The training is a part of the five (5) years Study on Formulation of New Approach to South-South Cooperation for Rural Development in which NIA and JIID have agreed to collaborate by virtue of a Memorandum of Understanding signed on 13 December 2010 between the NIA Administrator and JIID President.

In the first year of the Study, NIA/NIA Consult was contracted by JIID to undertake a follow-up survey of Technical Officials and Staff from Bangladesh and Lao PDR who attended Trainings in Irrigation in the Philippines.

In the second year of the Study, the same activity as in the first year was conducted for Officials and Technical Staff of the Irrigation Department of Kenya in East Africa.

The training is an activity in the third year as a Trial Training Course on PIM in support of the mandate of the International Network of Water and Ecosystem in Paddy Fields-Working Group 3 (INWEPF-WG3).

After more than 20 years of musical silence, melodies and harmonies were heard once again within the halls of the NIA Central Office since the NIA-CO Chorale debuted on December 20, 2012.

In the first quarter of 2013, they performed in NIA’s major events. They serenaded the former Senior Deputy Administrator Antonio A. Galvez during his 65th birthday celebration on January 26th at the NIA Penthouse. Likewise, they sang during the thanksgiving mass in Administrator Antonio S. Nangel’s birthday, they also did a heartfelt rendition of the “Lord’s Prayer” and led the singing of the National Anthem during the unveiling of the 100 days countdown signage that signaled the 50th anniversary celebration of the agency.

The Chorale derived their inspiration from the strong support of Administrator Antonio S. Nangel, Deputy Administrator Robert C. Suguitan and Administrative Department Manager Violeta C. Esguerra. The coordinators extend their sincere gratitude to the management’s unwavering support who let their staff members attend the group’s bi-weekly rehearsals.

The NIA Chorale is still recruiting new voices and tones in preparation for NIA’s 50th Anniversary Celebration and the resurgence of music in the agency.

by: ROCIELLE HARLEttE E. NAVARRO, pAIS-C.O.

Session Resource Person

Historical Background of PIM in the Philippines

Antonio A. GalvezPresident, NIA Consult, Inc. (NCI)

Dominador D. PascuaConsultant, NCI

PIM Experiences in Small Scale Irrigation SystemsPIM Experiences in Medium and Large Irrigation

Systems

Enrique A. Sabio, Jr.Consultant, NCIVictorino T. Aron

Head, IDD Section, MARIIS

Lessons Learned in Small Scale, Medium and Large Patricio G. JuanConsultant, NCI

14 15